Are Neurotoxins Right for Me?

Aging can bring about all sorts of impacts to your body and your skin is not exempt. That’s why you probably have heard about many adults turning to neurotoxins to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Examples of some FDA-approved neurotoxin products include Botox, Dysport, Jeauveau, and Xeomin. These quick treatments can improve the look of frown lines and wrinkles for up to four months.

Purpose
Facial lines can occur from natural changes in your skin, collagen reduction, and even the environment. Repeated muscle contractions from smiling, frowning, squinting, or raising eyebrows play a role in creating unwanted wrinkles and lines. Injecting neurotoxins into the target area temporarily reduces muscle activity and smoothes lines. This is especially popular between the eyebrows, on the forehead, around the mouth, and beside the eyes.

Candidates
Everyone’s facial lines develop differently and at different rates. Once the lines start to really bother you, it may be time to discuss your options with an experienced healthcare professional like Dr. Bernard Raskin in Bakersfield. It is not your age that determines when it might be time for neurotoxin treatment, but it is the severity of your lines. Both men and women are candidates for this type of cosmetic treatment. Since neurotoxins don’t work for all types of wrinkles, it is ideal to seek professional help to learn what your best options are.

Procedure
It is critical to obtain neurotoxin treatment from a licensed, trained medial expert using safe materials and techniques. This personalized method for improving your appearance focuses on your specific goals and condition. The injection itself takes only about ten minutes and often is described as feeling like a pinch to the skin. Your dermatologist may use ice or topical numbing cream to help deaden the treatment area. Remember that neurotoxins are not a permanent cure for facial lines and wrinkles and that the issues will likely gradually reappear over time if treatment is discontinued.

Side effects
A small percentage of neurotoxin patients may encounter side effects after the injection. These can include bruising, weakness, facial asymmetry, eyelid drooping, loss of muscle tone, double vision, headache, nausea, under or over correction, or paralysis of nearby muscles.

Results
One of the best things about neurotoxins is the minimal downtime associated with treatment. You can return to work or normal activities immediately. Results are usually noticeable within a couple of weeks and last up to four months. Dr. Bernard Raskin in Bakersfield will help you plan your next neurotoxin appointment based on your specific results and goals.

What Are Skin Tags?

Skin tags are usually harmless skin growths that look like a small piece of skin hanging from the body. These common noncancerous growths contain collagen inside, a natural protein in your body that is linked to healthy skin. They are typically soft and develop in natural creases of the body like the neck, underarms, eyelids, or groin. Although they are not dangerous, some people choose to have them removed.

Causes
The most likely cause of skin tags is friction from movement or clothing that creates excess skin growths in that area. Although they can happen to anyone, some known increased risk factors are obesity, pregnancy, hormone imbalance, Type 2 diabetes, or human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Skin tags are more common in women than men. Those with family members with a history of skin tags also have a higher likelihood of developing them.

Evaluation
If skin tags are bothersome or if they change in appearance, seeing a qualified dermatologist like Dr. Bernard Raskin in Bakerfield is a good idea. This is especially true if your skin tag bleeds, causes pain, changes color, or increases in size. You might also want to seek skin tag removal if it is in a location that gets hung on jewelry or clothing or is embarrassing to you.

Removal
The ideal removal method depends on the size and location of the skin tag. Some common techniques include:

• Cutting: using a scalpel or sharp scissors to snip the skin tag off
• Freezing: applying liquid nitrogen to freeze the skin and destroy the skin tag
• Burning: using an electrocautery tool to burn off the tag to remove it and avoid damaging nearby skin

Do not try to remove skin tags on your own at home. Over the counter treatments are often not effective and some can be harmful to your skin. Cutting off a skin tag yourself may cause bleeding and liquid applications can burn your skin or cause scarring. Instead, seek professional care from a physician like Dr. Bernard Raskin for the best treatment for your skin tag.

Schedule an appointment today.

Exploring the Latest Rosacea Treatments and Their Effectiveness

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that causes redness, flushing, and bumps on the face. While there is no cure for rosacea, there are a number of treatment options available to help manage the condition and improve the health and appearance of the skin. In this article, we’ll explore the latest rosacea treatments and their effectiveness.

Topical medications are a common treatment option for rosacea. These medications are applied directly to the skin and may include:

1. Antibiotics: Antibiotics can help to reduce inflammation and the proliferation of bacteria on the skin. Topical antibiotics, such as metronidazole and erythromycin, are often used to treat rosacea.
2. Azelaic acid: Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring compound that has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It is available as a cream or gel and is often used to treat rosacea.
3. Ivermectin: Ivermectin is a medication that has been shown to be effective in reducing the redness and bumps associated with rosacea. It is available as a cream or lotion.

Oral medications may also be used to treat rosacea. These medications are taken by mouth and may include:

1. Antibiotics: Antibiotics can help to reduce inflammation and the proliferation of bacteria on the skin. Oral antibiotics, such as doxycycline and minocycline, are often used to treat rosacea.
2. Isotretinoin: Isotretinoin is a medication that is usually used to treat acne, but it has also been shown to be effective in treating rosacea. It is a powerful medication that can have serious side effects, so it is usually reserved for severe cases of rosacea.

Laser treatments are another option for treating rosacea. These treatments use lasers or intense pulsed light (IPL) to reduce the appearance of redness and visible blood vessels on the skin. Laser treatments are typically well-tolerated and may be effective in improving the appearance of rosacea, but they may need to be repeated to maintain results.

There are a number of treatment options available for rosacea, including topical medications, oral medications, and laser treatments. The most appropriate treatment will depend on the severity of the condition and the individual’s specific needs and goals. It’s important to work with a dermatologist to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your needs and to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment over time.

Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.

Skin Cancer Risk Factors: Who Should See a Dermatologist for a Screening?

The Benefits of Seeking Early Treatment for Rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that causes redness, flushing, and bumps on the face. While there is no cure for rosacea, early treatment can help to manage the condition and prevent its progression. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of seeking early treatment for rosacea.

One of the main benefits of seeking early treatment for rosacea is the ability to prevent the condition from worsening. Without treatment, rosacea can progress through four stages, each with increasing severity of symptoms. By seeking treatment early, you can prevent the condition from progressing to the later stages and reduce the risk of complications.

Early treatment can also help to reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups. By working with Bakersfield dermatologist Dr. Raskin to develop a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs, you can take control of your rosacea and improve the health and appearance of your skin.

Another benefit of early treatment is the ability to address any emotional and social impacts of the condition. Rosacea can be a source of embarrassment and self-consciousness for those who have it, and seeking treatment early can help to alleviate these feelings. Early treatment can also help to prevent the development of low self-esteem and depression that can often accompany chronic skin conditions.

There are a number of treatment options available for rosacea, including topical medications, oral medications, and laser treatments. Dr. Raskin can help you determine the best treatment plan for your specific needs and goals.

In conclusion, seeking early treatment for rosacea can provide a number of benefits, including preventing the condition from worsening, reducing the frequency and severity of flare-ups, and addressing any emotional and social impacts of the condition. If you think you may have rosacea, it’s important to see a dermatologist as soon as possible to begin treatment and take control of your skin health.

If you’re suffering with rosacea contact our office today to schedule an appointment.

Eczema: Controlling the Itch

Eczema is an itchy rash that can be one of the most annoying and uncomfortable skin conditions there is. It can occur anywhere on the body and may start as a simple rash but can worsen into a very red and extremely irritated area when scratched.

There are several different types of eczema that an experienced physician like Dr. Raskin in Bakersfield can diagnose. Some common types are:

• Atopic dermatitis: occurs in infants and children but can linger through adulthood. The signs are severely itchy, scaly areas on the insides of the elbow, behind the knees, on the face, or anywhere else on the body.
• Contact dermatitis: occurs when the skin is exposed to an allergen, which may be simply something you are allergic to or something like poison ivy.
• Seborrheic dermatitis: chronic eczema affecting body parts with numerous oil glands, such as the scalp, eyebrows, nose and chest. The affected areas have a flaky white appearance.
• Hand eczema: red, itchy, dry, flaky, cracking, blistering hands or feet are all signs of hand eczema.

There are some general tips that can help eczema patients manage their symptoms. Avoid long hot showers that can remove moisture from the skin and apply lotion while the skin is still damp after bathing to seal in moisture. Choose breathable soft clothing and avoid itchy fabrics. Select creams or lotions specifically formulated for eczema symptoms that are gentle and fragrance-free. Popular products for relieving itching and skin irritation contain ingredients such as shea butter, colloidal oatmeal, and hyaluronic acid. Experts also recommend avoiding alcohol-based products and fragrances that may trigger eczema flareups.

Eczema treatments include corticosteroid ointments, antibiotics, oral corticosteroids, or injectable biologics. Therapies like wet dressings or light therapy may also be successful in treating eczema patients. Seeking professional help with Dr. Raskin is a great step in reaching your goal of controlling or even eliminating the irritating symptoms of eczema.  Schedule an appointment today.

Skin Cancer: The Importance of Early Detection

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, with more than 3.5 million cases diagnosed each year. While it is highly treatable if caught early, it can be deadly if left unchecked. That’s why it’s so important to see a dermatologist for regular skin cancer screenings.

During a skin cancer screening, a our dermatologist will examine your skin from head to toe to look for any suspicious moles, growths, or other abnormalities. They will also check for any changes in the size, shape, or color of existing moles, as well as for any new growths that may have appeared.

If the dermatologist finds anything unusual during the screening, they may recommend a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. A biopsy is a simple procedure in which a small sample of the suspicious tissue is removed and examined under a microscope to determine if it is cancerous.

If the biopsy reveals that you have skin cancer, the dermatologist will work with you to develop a treatment plan. This may include surgery to remove the cancerous tissue, as well as other treatments such as radiation or chemotherapy.

The earlier skin cancer is detected, the easier it is to treat. That’s why it’s so important to see a dermatologist like Dr. Raskin for regular skin cancer screenings. Even if you don’t have any obvious signs of skin cancer, it’s still a good idea to get checked out by a dermatologist on a regular basis, as they are trained to spot even the smallest and most subtle changes in your skin.

The DO’s and DONT’s about skin cancer

DO:

• Wear protective clothing and accessories, such as a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and long-sleeved shirts and pants, when you’re outside, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are the strongest.
• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 on all exposed skin every day, even on cloudy days. Be sure to apply enough sunscreen and reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating.
• Seek shade when the sun’s rays are the strongest, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Get vitamin D safely through a healthy diet that includes foods naturally rich in vitamin D, such as fatty fish and egg yolks, and/or by taking a daily supplement.
• Examine your skin regularly and check with a dermatologist if you notice any changes in the size, shape, or color of your moles or any other unusual growths on your skin.

DON’T:

• Don’t skip wearing sunscreen because you’re using insect repellent or wearing protective clothing. Both are important for protecting your skin.
• Don’t use tanning beds or sunlamps. The UV radiation from these sources can increase your risk of skin cancer.
• Don’t rely on the SPF in your makeup or moisturizer. These products are not meant to replace sunscreen and typically do not provide enough protection on their own.
• Don’t let yourself burn. Even one severe sunburn can increase your risk of skin cancer.

Schedule your skin cancer screening at our Bakersfield location.

Maintaining Healthy Skin

Taking proper care of your skin achieves more than simply looking good. Not only will you help avoid wrinkles and blemishes, you can also reduce your chances for problems like skin cancer. Experienced dermatologists like Dr. Bernard Raskin in Bakersfield can provide tips such as these for maintaining healthy skin.

Wear sunscreen
Choose a broad spectrum sunscreen that you like well enough to consistently wear. Look for an SPF factor of 30 or higher and use it on all body parts exposed to the sun. Wearing sunscreen will help avoid sunburns and lower your risk of skin cancers like melanoma.

Wear protective clothing
Look for clothing that is rated for sun use. Some clothes have a UPF rating, or ultraviolet protection factor, to indicate how much the type of fabric may offer sun protection. To block out damaging sun rays, choose clothing with rated UPF 50 or more.

Limit sun exposure
Prolonged sun exposure contributes to issues like wrinkles, skin discoloration, and fine lines. Follow recommended precautions like sunscreen and protective clothing and seek shade whenever possible.

Wash your face
At least once or twice daily, wash your face with a gentle facial cleanser and warm water. Avoid harsh products that may harm your skin. The goal is to eliminate dirt, chemicals, oil and other impurities from the surface of your skin.

Moisturize your skin
Select a moisturizer, cream or lotion recommended to gently protect your skin from dryness. If your skin is oily, find products that are labeled oil-free that will safely hydrate skin without making it even oilier.

Exfoliate your skin
Remove dead skin cells once a week by using an exfoliating scrub. This is an effective tool for especially dry skin areas like the elbows, heels and knees.

Drink water
Drink plenty of water to keep your skin well hydrated. This helps maintain both your skin’s health and appearance.

Eat healthy
One less known way to maintain healthy skin is to eat a diet containing healthy fats. Examples of these foods are nuts, fatty fishes, avocados, and extra virgin olive oil.

Take vitamins
Adding vitamins to your daily routine not only improves your overall health, it can also contribute to healthier skin. Vitamin C increases the production of collagen and elastin, making your skin more supple and brightening your skin tone. Vitamin E provides extra protection from inflammation in the body.

Quit smoking
Smoking is detrimental to your general health and also your skin. Your blood may not flow throughout your body as efficiently, decreasing the nutrients in your skin and giving your skin a more tired and pale appearance.

Schedule regular dermatologist visits
Everyone should schedule regular checkups with a physician like Dr. Bernard Raskin so that any skin conditions can be treated and signs of problems like skin cancer can be identified. Regular screenings are especially important for those with diagnosed conditions like psoriasis or eczema, where rashes can be prevalent and lead to infections. Many treatments are available for a variety of skin conditions. Regular skin checkups for suspicious moles or blemishes can also mean early and most effective skin cancer treatments. Schedule a consultation with our dermatologist to evaluate your skin’s health and make sure you are making the best choices for your skin’s care.

Psoriasis and Nutrition: The Importance of a Healthy Diet

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by the rapid buildup of skin cells, which can lead to red, scaly patches on the skin. While there is no known cure for psoriasis, there are various treatment options available to help manage the symptoms. One important aspect of managing psoriasis is maintaining a healthy diet.

According to dermatologists, the foods we eat can have a significant impact on the severity and frequency of psoriasis flare-ups. A healthy diet can help reduce inflammation in the body, which is a key factor in the development of psoriasis. Conversely, an unhealthy diet high in processed and sugary foods can exacerbate inflammation and increase the risk of flare-ups.

So, what should you eat if you have psoriasis? Dermatologists recommend following a balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. These types of foods are packed with essential nutrients and antioxidants that can help support overall health and reduce inflammation. Additionally, it’s important to limit your intake of unhealthy fats, such as those found in fried foods and processed snacks, as they can contribute to inflammation.

There are also certain foods that may be beneficial for people with psoriasis. For example, fatty fish, such as salmon and sardines, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Other foods that may be helpful include nuts, seeds, and leafy greens, which are high in antioxidants and other nutrients that support skin health.

It’s worth noting that every person is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. If you have psoriasis and are looking to improve your diet, it’s always a good idea to consult with a dermatologist like Dr. Raskin. Creating a personalized nutrition plan that is tailored to your specific needs can help you manage your psoriasis more effectively.

Maintaining a healthy diet is an important aspect of managing psoriasis. By following a balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, and limiting your intake of unhealthy fats, you can help reduce inflammation and improve your overall health.

If you’re struggling with psoriasis contact our office today to schedule an appointment to learn more about treatment options.

Options for Treating Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer and can be deadly in some cases. There are a variety of types and severities of skin cancers and therefore, a variety of ways it can be treated. If you are diagnosed with skin cancer, it is imperative that you seek treatment from an experienced dermatologist such as drBernardRaskin in Bakersfield. You need an expert in the field to help you decide upon the safest and best treatment plan for your health.

Topical medications
A non-invasive treatment is the use of cream or gel medication rubbed onto the affected area to block cancer cells from growing and multiplying. Possible side effects include redness or swelling in the area.

Freezing
Also called cryosurgery, this method involves using liquid nitrogen to destroy the tumor. The freezing procedure causes the tumor to crust over and eventually fall off. It does not entail cutting but may still leave a scar. Freezing is most often used for precancerous growths.

Curettage and electrodessication
A sharp instrument called a curette may be used to scrape off the growth, along with an electric current afterwards to destroy remaining cancer cells. The procedure may need to be done several times to ensure all skin cancer cells have been eliminated. It may leave a scar where the procedure was performed.

Excision surgery
Your physician may use a scalpel to excise the tumor and surrounding tissue as needed. Stitches are likely required and a sample of the tissue is sent to a lab for complete analysis. If skin cancer cells are still present upon analysis, a second procedure may be advised. A skin graft is sometimes needed if a large area of skin is removed during excision.

Mohs micrographic surgery
An alternative to traditional excision surgery is Mohs micrographic surgery, which entails using a surgical tool to remove the growth in thin layers. Each layer is evaluated under a microscope to see if cancer cells are present. If so, the process is repeated until the layer shows no more cancer cells.

Photodynamic therapy
Your dermatologist applies a chemical that reacts to light to the skin cancer growth and then exposes it to light that kills cancer cells but allows healthy cells to survive. Redness and swelling are possible afterwards, as well as temporary light sensitivity to that area.

Radiation therapy
Radiation may be recommended to destroy the cancer cells. The procedure is not unlike having an X-ray but with even stronger radiation. This is sometimes advised when surgery is not the ideal option. Side effects can include nausea, hair loss, fatigue, or skin issues.

Chemotherapy
A well-known cancer treatment, chemotherapy requires injecting drugs into the body through an IV so that the medication goes through the bloodstream to attack cancer cells. It is effective in treating cancer that has spread in the body. Side effects may include nausea, vomiting, hair loss, fatigue, and infection risk. These side effects usually dissipate after chemotherapy treatments end.

Schedule a skin cancer scan appointment today.